2014 Vauxhall Vivaro 1.6L Diesel · DS64 ABN

The most recent DVSA test dated 13 July 2026 resulted in a pass, but only after a same-day failure that classified two defects as Dangerous. The nearside front track rod end ball joint was found worn to the extent that there was a serious risk of detachment, and the nearside rear brake pads were recorded at less than 1.5 mm thick, both of which represent immediate safety concerns. Looking back across the recent history, the trend is clearly worsening rather than stable. A 2023 entry recorded both rear coil springs as fractured, a 2024 pass noted an oil leak and front shock absorber misting, and the 2025 test produced a failure for a leaking front shock absorber and an offside track rod end with excessive play, with advisories for a worn lower arm ball joint and anti-roll bar D bush. That same nearside front lower arm ball joint play, the anti-roll bar D bush wear, and the engine oil leak have now persisted or recurred across two consecutive test cycles, suggesting these wear items are being monitored rather than rectified. The fact that the dangerous defects were remedied and the vehicle subsequently passed is positive, but the density of advisories and major items over a three-year window indicates a chassis and braking system that is consuming components at a notable rate. The recorded mileage of 108,799 miles over roughly twelve years equates to an average of around 9,000 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a light commercial vehicle of this type, particularly one likely used for mixed urban and short-journey work. There are no significant gaps or unusually rapid accumulation periods evident in the MOT record, with the mileage progressing in a steady, consistent manner between tests. This kind of usage profile tends to place above-average stress on braking components, suspension bushes, and steering linkages due to the laden and stop-start nature of van operation, which is consistent with the pattern of front-end wear items appearing repeatedly. It also means the engine and drivetrain have covered a substantial distance, and although there are no recorded advisories relating to clutch, gearbox, or exhaust emissions, the cumulative mileage warrants attention to age-related service items that do not always appear on an MOT. A prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the nearside front suspension corner, as the lower arm ball joint, anti-roll bar D bush, and shock absorber have all been flagged in successive tests. On a test drive, listen for clonks or knocks over speed humps, uneven bumps, and during sharp low-speed turns, and check for uneven front tyre wear, especially inner shoulder scrubbing, which would indicate worn bushes or a failing ball joint. Inspect the rear brake pads and discs carefully, as pads were found below 1.5 mm at the most recent test, and verify that the caliper slides are free and not binding, a common issue on vans that stand for periods. The persistent engine oil leak noted across multiple tests, although classed as not excessive, should be investigated; on a cold start listen for any timing chain rattle, check the oil level and condition on the dipstick, and ask whether the undertrays have been removed to allow a proper inspection, as the advisory specifically notes the leak could not be fully assessed. The track rod ends on both sides have now failed in successive tests, so a wheel alignment check and a thorough steering inspection are essential, and any vagueness, wander, or steering vibration on the road would suggest further wear. Beyond the recorded defects, the vehicle's age dictates attention to several time-based items. Tyres may be suffering from age-related sidewall cracking or perishing even if the tread depth is acceptable, and the advisory cuts noted on a 2022 rear tyre demonstrate the importance of inspecting all four tyres and the spare for embedded damage and DOT date codes. Brake discs, particularly at the rear, are prone to corrosion and lipping if the vehicle has been stood for any length of time, so a spongy pedal or vibration under braking should be investigated. The 12-volt battery, coolant, brake fluid, and automatic or manual gearbox oil if applicable should all be considered for renewal on age rather than purely on mileage, especially if service history cannot confirm recent changes. Verify the service book stamps and invoice records to ensure cambelt or timing chain intervals, fuel filter, and air filter have been addressed in line with manufacturer schedules for this engine. Finally, a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified independent garage, ideally with the undertrays removed to assess the oil leak fully, would be strongly recommended given the volume of recent chassis and braking component replacements flagged in the MOT history.